Family: Marantaceae

The name of this genus derives from the Greek kalathos, a basket, and refers to its use in weaving by the native American peoples. Calatheas are grown for their splendid foliage. Variously patterned on top in green, brown, purple, pink and maroon feathery markings, generally with purple undersides, the leaves emerge from the base of the plant on long, slender, upright stems. The strength of the colouring on the leaves is often affected by the environment. The insignificant yellow or white flowers are borne in small sprays.

Species

C. argyraea, whose origin is uncertain, has deep green leaves, banded with silvery-gray above.

C. louisae, from Central and South America, has dark green leaves, with white feathering down the center, and grows to 2 m (6 ft).

C. makoyana, the peacock plant from Brazil, is thought by many to be one of the most magnificent foliage plants and is the ideal choice for growing as a house plant. The light green leaves have deep green blotches on top and deep green edges.

C. majestica 'Roseolineata', to 90 cm (36 in), is from Guyana, Colombia and Ecuador. Its green leaves are marked with slender, parallel lines in rich pink fading to white.

C. mediopicta, from Brazil, has green leaves marked with silver feathering. It grows to 60 cm (24 in).

C. picturata 'Argentea' from Brazil, has shiny glaucous leaves leaves, with white feathering. It grows to 40 cm (16 in).

C. veitchiana grows to 1.2 m (4 ft) tall. From tropical South America, it has dark green leaves, blotched with yellow along the midribs and light green bands. The dark green areas on the top of the leaves are coloured purple on the reverse.

C. zebrina, zebra plant, from Brazil, has broad, velvety, deep green leaves, with yellowish green midribs, veins and edges. It grows to 1 m (3 ft).

Cultivation

Calatheas will grow well under fernery-type conditions, with shade, in subtropical and tropical zones. Otherwise, they should be grown in a warm glasshouse or conservatory. They also make good house plants. Humid conditions, with open shade, produce the best foliage. If planting in pots, place crock or charcoal in the pots to give good drainage, along with a mix of loam, peat, leaf mould and sand, or a good quality mix high in organic matter. Propagate by division.

Climate

Calatheas will grow in zone 10 and above.